Canadian livestock producers are fortunate to have Codes of Practice to guide them in best practices for livestock housing, handling, and care. Revisions of these codes are being coordinated by the National Farm Animal Care Council, which is a collaborative partnership of very diverse stakeholders who work together on farm animal care and welfare. The Codes for several species are being updated.
The last Pig Code of Practice was published in 1994, so an update is needed in order to reflect new practices, producer needs, and market expectations. The National Farm Animal Care Council has announced that a draft will be released on June 1st for a 60 day comment period.
It is very important that Ontario pork producers review the content of the proposed Pig Code of Practice and provide feedback directly through the National Farm Animal Care Council website or through their producer association. This is the opportunity to comment on a document that will become the expected Canadian standard for pork production practices. The key areas of focus for this review have been sow housing, space, and pain management.
This is your opportunity to provide input on this important document – don’t pass it up. The National Farm Animal Care Council website is http://www.nfacc.ca.
